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Support all New York propositions

11:53 a.m. EDT October 29, 2013

In this April 2013 file photo, Army Sgt. Rodolfo Griffith, left, of Webster, visits with Daniel Johnson, representing Cintas Corporation, during a job fair for veterans at National Guard Armory.
(Photo: Jamie Germano)

Across New York, voters should head to the polls in force next Tuesday to choose the direction of the governments closest to them. However, in addition to deciding the fate of dozens of local political contests, voters must also affirm or reject six ballot propositions affecting the state’s Constitution. Below are the Editorial Board’s positions on each.

Proposition 1: Casino gambling

Following the enactment of the Upstate N.Y. Gaming Economic Development Act in July, voters ought to carry out the next necessary step by approving Proposition 1, allowing for the construction of up to seven private casino gaming destinations. With the promise of $430 million in new tax revenues — Monroe County would receive $15.5 million — and 10,000 jobs, Gov. Andrew Cuomo’s gaming proposal has strong support among business, labor and municipal leaders throughout the state. Organized opposition to the plan, which entails four initial casinos to be located in the Hudson Valley, Southern Tier and Capital Region, is tied largely to moral objections. Such concerns should be allayed by promised investment in programs to mitigate “problem gambling” — $4.7 million is a good start, but more should follow. Voters shouldn’t pass up this chance for economic growth.

Proposition 2: Civil service credits for veterans

In the tradition of attempting to repay the men and women of the U.S. military for dear sacrifices made in the name of this country, Proposition 2 would entitle veterans to additional credits toward civil service job hirings and promotions. Veterans who become certified as disabled after having received credit for veteran status under an existing program will now be entitled to additional points. The substantial obstacles standing between returning vets and successful civilian careers are well documented. Vote “yes.”

Proposition 3: Debt for sewage construction

Passing Proposition 3 will allow municipalities to continue not counting debt incurred for sewage construction against statutory debt limits. Voter approval will extend this practice — in place since 1962 — for another 10 years. With tax bases dwindling and aging infrastructure groaning for repair or replacement, giving cities, towns and villages such financial flexibility makes sense.

Proposition 4: Land dispute settlement

The first of two propositions related to the state’s Adirondack Park region, Proposition 4 would allow the state and more than 200 land owners in Hamilton County to settle a century-old property dispute. A “yes” vote will authorize the agreement, which will see property owners awarded uncontested title to their land. In exchange, they will pay into a fund that will be used to allow the state to buy a similar amount of property — about 1,000 acres — to be added to the Adirondack Forest Preserve. The agreement includes no costs to state taxpayers. It should be approved.

Proposition 5: Forest Preserve land swap

Proposition 5 would also add acreage to the Adirondack Forest Preserve. The land swap would see a mining company given access to 200 acres of Forest Preserve land that abuts its current site in exchange for some 1,500 acres of property near Lake Placid. In addition, the 200 acres of mining property would be returned to the state once mining is completed and the land is restored. This opportunity to expand undeveloped state lands for outdoor enjoyment warrants voter approval.

Proposition 6: Retirement for judges

“Seasoned” could take on new meaning in New York’s judiciary with passage of Proposition 6. While forced retirement at age 70 would stand for most judges, this amendment would allow Supreme Court justices to serve up to five two-year terms beyond that age (compared to three terms now). Judges on the Court of Appeals could serve until 80 to finish 14-year appointments. With Americans living far longer than in 1869, when the 70 benchmark was set, and with Supreme Court judges required to prove maintained competency, New York’s most experienced and capable arbiters should have a shot at serving the public a few more years.